U.S. patent application number 17/504903 was filed with the patent office on 2022-02-03 for sample preparation for difficult sample types.
The applicant listed for this patent is BioFire Diagnostics, LLC. Invention is credited to Cheryl Lynn Baird, Robert John Crisp, Jeremy Paul Green, Andrew Clinton Hemmert, Erik Wong Huynh, Jesse Linton Montgomery, Elizabeth Mary Ott Crowther, Kendall A. Rasband, Stephanie Anne Thatcher.
Application Number | 20220034770 17/504903 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | |
Filed Date | 2022-02-03 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220034770 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Thatcher; Stephanie Anne ;
et al. |
February 3, 2022 |
SAMPLE PREPARATION FOR DIFFICULT SAMPLE TYPES
Abstract
Devices and methods are provided for collecting and handling
difficult sample types.
Inventors: |
Thatcher; Stephanie Anne;
(Salt Lake City, UT) ; Green; Jeremy Paul; (Salt
Lake City, UT) ; Huynh; Erik Wong; (West Jordan,
UT) ; Hemmert; Andrew Clinton; (Murray, UT) ;
Montgomery; Jesse Linton; (Centerville, UT) ; Crisp;
Robert John; (Cottonwood Heights, UT) ; Rasband;
Kendall A.; (Salt Lake City, UT) ; Ott Crowther;
Elizabeth Mary; (Sandy, UT) ; Baird; Cheryl Lynn;
(Salt Lake City, UT) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
BioFire Diagnostics, LLC |
Salt Lake City |
UT |
US |
|
|
Appl. No.: |
17/504903 |
Filed: |
October 19, 2021 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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15340612 |
Nov 1, 2016 |
11175205 |
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17504903 |
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62249592 |
Nov 2, 2015 |
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International
Class: |
G01N 1/40 20060101
G01N001/40; C12N 15/10 20060101 C12N015/10; C12Q 1/6806 20060101
C12Q001/6806; G01N 1/02 20060101 G01N001/02 |
Claims
1. A method of amplifying RNA from a direct blood sample
comprising: (a) adding the direct blood sample to a sample buffer,
(b) bead beating the sample buffer, (c) extracting the RNA from the
sample buffer, and (d) amplifying the RNA.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein steps (b) through (d) are
performed in a closed sample vessel.
3. The method of claim 1, wherein steps (a) through (d) are
performed without centrifugation, ethanol precipitation, and DNA
digestion.
4. The method of claim 1, wherein the RNA is host RNA.
5. The method of claim 1, wherein the direct blood sample is
collected in a RNA stabilized solution.
6. The method of claim 1, wherein the direct blood sample is
collected in a non-RNA stabilizing solution.
7. The method of claim 1, wherein the direct blood sample is
separated prior to step (a) and a blood fraction is used.
8. The method of claim 1, further comprising filtering the sample
between steps (a) and (b).
9. The method of claim 1, wherein the RNA is provided in high copy
number.
10. The method of claim 1, wherein the RNA is from
microorganisms.
11. The method of claim 1, further comprising washing the RNA
following the extracting step, wherein the washing step comprises
no more than three washes.
12. The method of claim 1, wherein the sample buffer includes a
guanidinium compound.
13. The method of claim 1, wherein step (g) includes a first-stage
multiplex PCR and a plurality of individual second-stage PCR
reactions.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS DATA
[0001] This application is a divisional application of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 15/340,612, filed Nov. 1, 2016, which claims
the benefit, under 35 U.S.C. .sctn. 119(e), of U.S. Provisional
Application Ser. No. 62/249,592, filed Nov. 2, 2015, the entire
contents of each of which are incorporated by reference herein.
BACKGROUND
1. Technical Field
[0002] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate generally to
methods and devices for extracting nucleic acids from a sample.
2. Background
[0003] In the United States, Canada, and Western Europe infectious
disease accounts for approximately 7% of human mortality, while in
developing regions infectious disease accounts for over 40% of
human mortality. Infectious diseases lead to a variety of clinical
manifestations. Among common overt manifestations are fever,
pneumonia, meningitis, diarrhea, and diarrhea containing blood.
While the physical manifestations suggest some pathogens and
eliminate others as the etiological agent, a variety of potential
causative agents remain, and clear diagnosis often requires a
variety of assays be performed. Traditional microbiology techniques
for diagnosing pathogens can take days or weeks, often delaying a
proper course of treatment.
[0004] In recent years, the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) has
become a method of choice for rapid diagnosis of infectious agents.
PCR can be a rapid, sensitive, and specific tool to diagnose
infectious disease. A challenge to using PCR as a primary means of
diagnosis is the variety of possible causative organisms or viruses
and the low levels of organism or virus present in some
pathological specimens. It is often impractical to run large panels
of PCR assays, one for each possible causative organism or viruses,
most of which are expected to be negative. The problem is
exacerbated when pathogen nucleic acid is at low concentration and
requires a large volume of sample to gather adequate reaction
templates. In some cases there is inadequate sample to assay for
all possible etiological agents. A solution is to run "multiplex
PCR" wherein the sample is concurrently assayed for multiple
targets in a single reaction. While multiplex PCR has proved to be
valuable in some systems, shortcomings exist concerning robustness
of high level multiplex reactions and difficulties for clear
analysis of multiple products. To solve these problems, the assay
may be subsequently divided into multiple secondary PCRs. Nesting
secondary reactions within the primary product increases
robustness. Closed systems such as the FilmArray.RTM. (BioFire
Diagnostics, LLC, Salt Lake City, Utah) reduce handling, thereby
diminishing contamination risk.
[0005] Sample preparation is often a balance between harsh
extraction and lysing conditions for releasing nucleic acids from
tougher materials such as spores and paraffin preserved samples,
and gentler lysing conditions that may minimize nucleic acid
degradation, particularly in contaminants that lyse more easily and
have longer chromosomes. It would be desirable to be able to
extract nucleic acids from tougher materials without degrading
other nucleic acids that may be present in the sample.
[0006] In addition, certain sample types can be difficult to
handle. It can be difficult to introduce a solid, semi-solid, or
viscous sample to a biological processing system. Sample types such
as sputum are difficult to pipette and measure, and often require
pretreatment for a period of time prior to sample processing,
illustratively with heat or dithiothreitol, to reduce viscosity and
help break up the sample matrix. In addition to sputum, other
difficult biological samples include but are not limited to mucus,
BAL, and other respiratory sample types, stool, tissue, tissue
homogenate, ground tissue, paraffin treated formalin embedded
tissue, bone, bone homogenate, eschars, puss, synovial fluid, lymph
node aspirates, and stomach washings. Environmental samples,
illustratively soil, surfaces, powders or food, are often solid or
semi-solid and may also present challenges. Moreover, extensive
handling during sample pre-treatment can lead to
cross-contamination, can be time consuming, and it often dilutes
the sample, often leading to decreased sensitivity.
[0007] The present invention addresses various issues relating to
preparation of a sample prior to further testing, for example for
purification of nucleic acids from a sample, for biological
analysis.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] In one aspect of the present disclosure, a sample collection
method is provided, the method comprising collecting a sample
comprising a biological or environmental substance using a swab,
placing the swab with the collected sample in a sample buffer, and
filtering the sample. In various illustrative embodiments, the
sample buffer may include a protease or a detergent and the sample
may be collected and transferred to the sample buffer using a
flocked swab.
[0009] In another aspect, a sample collection method is provided,
the method comprising collecting a sample comprising a biological
or environmental substance, and placing the sample in a sample
buffer wherein the sample buffer comprises a detergent in an amount
of at least 10% by volume of the sample buffer. Illustrative
embodiments may include drawing the sample through a filter. In one
more aspect, a sample collection method is provided, the method
comprising collecting a sample comprising a biological or
environmental substance by contacting the sample with a material
that preferentially collects and releases the organism over sample
matrix, and placing the material with the collected sample in a
sample buffer. Illustratively, the material is a hydrophilic
material or adsorbent material. In one embodiment, a fixed amount
of the material reproducibly absorbs and releases an amount of the
sample within a four-fold range.
[0010] In another aspect of the disclosure a cannulated vial is
provided, the cannulated vial comprising a vial body having a top
surface at one end, a bottom surface at an opposite end, and
exterior wall therebetween defining an interior vial volume, the
top surface having an opening, a cannula extending from the bottom
surface and having a first end, a second end and an outer surface
therebetween defining a cannula volume, the first end in fluid
communication with the interior vial volume, and a filter disposed
between the vial body and the cannula, and an additive provided in
the cannulated vial.
[0011] In yet another aspect of the disclosure, a sample container
is provided, the sample container comprising an opening configured
to receive a sample, a body configured to hold a fluid, an opening
configured to allow the fluid to exit, a filter disposed between
the body and the exit, and an additive provided for treating the
sample. Illustratively, the additive may be provided dried in the
sample container. Illustrative additives include proteases, DNAses,
DNAse inhibitors, RNAses, RNAse inhibitors, and lysozymes.
[0012] In still another aspect of the disclosure, a method of
introducing an additive to a system is provided, the method
comprising obtaining the sample container as described above, the
sample container holding the fluid, introducing the sample through
the opening into the fluid, drawing the fluid through the filter
and out the exit.
[0013] In one more aspect, methods of amplifying nucleic acids from
a direct blood sample are provided, the methods comprising adding
the direct blood sample to a sample buffer, bead beating the sample
buffer, extracting the nucleic acids from the sample buffer, and
amplifying the nucleic acids. Illustratively, such methods may be
performed in a closed sample vessel. In another illustrative
method, the steps are performed without one or more of
centrifugation, ethanol precipitation, and DNA digestion.
[0014] Additional features and advantages of the embodiments of the
invention will be set forth in the description which follows or may
be learned by the practice of such embodiments. The features and
advantages of such embodiments may be realized and obtained by
means of the instruments and combinations particularly pointed out
in the appended claims. These and other features will become more
fully apparent from the following description and appended claims,
or may be learned by the practice of such embodiments as set forth
hereinafter.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] In order to describe the manner in which the above-recited
and other advantages and features of the invention can be obtained,
a more particular description of the invention briefly described
above will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof
which are illustrated in the appended drawings. Understanding that
these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and
are not therefore to be considered to be limiting of its scope, the
invention will be described and explained with additional
specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings
in which:
[0016] FIG. 1 shows a flexible pouch according to one embodiment of
the present invention.
[0017] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of an instrument for
use with the pouch of FIG. 1, including the pouch of FIG. 1,
according to an example embodiment of the present invention.
[0018] FIG. 3 shows a partial cross-sectional view of the
instrument of FIG. 2, including the bladder components of FIG. 2,
with the pouch of FIG. 1 shown in dashed lines, according to an
example embodiment of the present invention.
[0019] FIG. 4 shows a motor used in one illustrative embodiment of
the instrument of FIG. 2.
[0020] FIG. 5 shows a loading station for loading the pouch of FIG.
1, including the pouch of FIG. 1, according to an example
embodiment of the present invention.
[0021] FIG. 6 shows a sample vial for loading a sample into the
pouch of FIG. 1.
[0022] FIG. 7 shows a hydration vial for providing a hydration
fluid to the pouch of FIG. 1, according to an example embodiment of
the present invention.
[0023] FIG. 8 shows a loading station comparable to FIG. 5, but
displaying a different loading station configuration and vials for
use with the loading station, according to an example embodiment of
the present invention.
[0024] FIG. 9 shows a portion of the sample vial of FIG. 8 and how
the sample vial keys to the sample vial receptacle of loading
station of FIG. 8, according to an example embodiment of the
present invention.
[0025] FIG. 10 shows a portion of a hydration vial of FIG. 8 and
how the hydration vial keys to the hydration vial receptacle of
loading station of FIG. 8, according to an example embodiment of
the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0026] Example embodiments are described below with reference to
the accompanying drawings. Many different forms and embodiments are
possible without deviating from the spirit and teachings of this
disclosure and so the disclosure should not be construed as limited
to the example embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these example
embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough
and complete, and will convey the scope of the disclosure to those
skilled in the art. In the drawings, the sizes and relative sizes
of layers and regions may be exaggerated for clarity. Like
reference numbers refer to like elements throughout the
description.
[0027] Unless defined otherwise, all terms (including technical and
scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly
understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the present
disclosure pertains. It will be further understood that terms, such
as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be
interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their
meaning in the context of the present application and relevant art
and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal
sense unless expressly so defined herein. The terminology used in
the description of the invention herein is for the purpose of
describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be
limiting of the invention. While a number of methods and materials
similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the
practice of the present disclosure, only certain exemplary
materials and methods are described herein.
[0028] All publications, patent applications, patents or other
references mentioned herein are incorporated by reference for in
their entirety. In case of a conflict in terminology, the present
specification is controlling.
[0029] Various aspects of the present disclosure, including
devices, systems, methods, etc., may be illustrated with reference
to one or more exemplary implementations. As used herein, the terms
"exemplary" and "illustrative" mean "serving as an example,
instance, or illustration," and should not necessarily be construed
as preferred or advantageous over other implementations disclosed
herein. In addition, reference to an "implementation" or
"embodiment" of the present disclosure or invention includes a
specific reference to one or more embodiments thereof, and vice
versa, and is intended to provide illustrative examples without
limiting the scope of the invention, which is indicated by the
appended claims rather than by the following description.
[0030] It will be noted that, as used in this specification and the
appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include
plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.
Thus, for example, reference to "a tile" includes one, two, or more
tiles. Similarly, reference to a plurality of referents should be
interpreted as comprising a single referent and/or a plurality of
referents unless the content and/or context clearly dictate
otherwise. Thus, reference to "tiles" does not necessarily require
a plurality of such tiles. Instead, it will be appreciated that
independent of conjugation; one or more tiles are contemplated
herein.
[0031] As used throughout this application the words "can" and
"may" are used in a permissive sense (i.e., meaning having the
potential to), rather than the mandatory sense (i.e., meaning
must). Additionally, the terms "including," "having," "involving,"
"containing," "characterized by," variants thereof (e.g.,
"includes," "has," "involves," "contains," etc.), and similar terms
as used herein, including the claims, shall be inclusive and/or
open-ended, shall have the same meaning as the word "comprising"
and variants thereof (e.g., "comprise" and "comprises"), and do not
exclude additional, un-recited elements or method steps,
illustratively.
[0032] As used herein, directional and/or arbitrary terms, such as
"top," "bottom," "left," "right," "up," "down," "upper," "lower,"
"inner," "outer," "internal," "external," "interior," "exterior,"
"proximal," "distal," "forward," "reverse," and the like can be
used solely to indicate relative directions and/or orientations and
may not be otherwise intended to limit the scope of the disclosure,
including the specification, invention, and/or claims.
[0033] It will be understood that when an element is referred to as
being "coupled," "connected," or "responsive" to, or "on," another
element, it can be directly coupled, connected, or responsive to,
or on, the other element, or intervening elements may also be
present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being
"directly coupled," "directly connected," or "directly responsive"
to, or "directly on," another element, there are no intervening
elements present.
[0034] Example embodiments of the present inventive concepts are
described herein with reference to cross-sectional illustrations
that are schematic illustrations of idealized embodiments (and
intermediate structures) of example embodiments. As such,
variations from the shapes of the illustrations as a result, for
example, of manufacturing techniques and/or tolerances, are to be
expected. Thus, example embodiments of the present inventive
concepts should not be construed as limited to the particular
shapes of regions illustrated herein but are to include deviations
in shapes that result, for example, from manufacturing.
Accordingly, the regions illustrated in the figures are schematic
in nature and their shapes are not intended to illustrate the
actual shape of a region of a device and are not intended to limit
the scope of example embodiments.
[0035] It will be understood that although the terms "first,"
"second," etc. may be used herein to describe various elements,
these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms
are only used to distinguish one element from another. Thus, a
"first" element could be termed a "second" element without
departing from the teachings of the present embodiments.
[0036] It is also understood that various implementations described
herein can be utilized in combination with any other implementation
described or disclosed, without departing from the scope of the
present disclosure. Therefore, products, members, elements,
devices, apparatus, systems, methods, processes, compositions,
and/or kits according to certain implementations of the present
disclosure can include, incorporate, or otherwise comprise
properties, features, components, members, elements, steps, and/or
the like described in other implementations (including systems,
methods, apparatus, and/or the like) disclosed herein without
departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Thus, reference
to a specific feature in relation to one implementation should not
be construed as being limited to applications only within said
implementation.
[0037] The headings used herein are for organizational purposes
only and are not meant to be used to limit the scope of the
description or the claims. To facilitate understanding, like
reference numerals have been used, where possible, to designate
like elements common to the figures. Furthermore, where possible,
like numbering of elements have been used in various figures.
Furthermore, alternative configurations of a particular element may
each include separate letters appended to the element number.
[0038] The term "about" is used herein to mean approximately, in
the region of, roughly, or around. When the term "about" is used in
conjunction with a numerical range, it modifies that range by
extending the boundaries above and below the numerical values set
forth. In general, the term "about" is used herein to modify a
numerical value above and below the stated value by a variance of
5%. When such a range is expressed, another embodiment includes
from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value.
Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of
the antecedent "about," it will be understood that the particular
value forms another embodiment. It will be further understood that
the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in
relation to the other endpoint, and independently of the other
endpoint.
[0039] The word "or" as used herein means any one member of a
particular list and also includes any combination of members of
that list.
[0040] By "sample" is meant an animal; a tissue or organ from an
animal; a cell (either within a subject, taken directly from a
subject, or a cell maintained in culture or from a cultured cell
line); a cell lysate (or lysate fraction) or cell extract; a
solution containing one or more molecules derived from a cell,
cellular material, or viral material (e.g. a polypeptide or nucleic
acid); or a solution containing a non-naturally occurring nucleic
acid, which is assayed as described herein. A sample may also be
any body fluid or excretion (for example, but not limited to,
blood, urine, stool, saliva, tears, bile, or cerebrospinal fluid)
that may or may not contain host or pathogen cells, cell
components, or nucleic acids.
[0041] The phrase "nucleic acid" as used herein refers to a
naturally occurring or synthetic oligonucleotide or polynucleotide,
whether DNA or RNA or DNA-RNA hybrid, single-stranded or
double-stranded, sense or antisense, which is capable of
hybridization to a complementary nucleic acid by Watson-Crick
base-pairing. Nucleic acids of the invention can also include
nucleotide analogs (e.g., BrdU), and non-phosphodiester
internucleoside linkages (e.g., peptide nucleic acid (PNA) or
thiodiester linkages). In particular, nucleic acids can include,
without limitation, DNA, RNA, cDNA, gDNA, ssDNA, dsDNA or any
combination thereof.
[0042] By "probe," "primer," or "oligonucleotide" is meant a
single-stranded nucleic acid molecule of defined sequence that can
base-pair to a second nucleic acid molecule that contains a
complementary sequence (the "target"). The stability of the
resulting hybrid depends upon the length, GC content, and the
extent of the base-pairing that occurs. The extent of base-pairing
is affected by parameters such as the degree of complementarity
between the probe and target molecules and the degree of stringency
of the hybridization conditions. The degree of hybridization
stringency is affected by parameters such as temperature, salt
concentration, and the concentration of organic molecules such as
formamide, and is determined by methods known to one skilled in the
art. Probes, primers, and oligonucleotides may be
detectably-labeled, either radioactively, fluorescently, or
non-radioactively, by methods well-known to those skilled in the
art. dsDNA binding dyes may be used to detect dsDNA. It is
understood that a "primer" is specifically configured to be
extended by a polymerase, whereas a "probe" or "oligonucleotide"
may or may not be so configured.
[0043] By "dsDNA binding dyes" is meant dyes that fluoresce
differentially when bound to double-stranded DNA than when bound to
single-stranded DNA or free in solution, usually by fluorescing
more strongly. While reference is made to dsDNA binding dyes, it is
understood that any suitable dye may be used herein, with some
non-limiting illustrative dyes described in U.S. Pat. No.
7,387,887, herein incorporated by reference. Other signal producing
substances may be used for detecting nucleic acid amplification and
melting, illustratively enzymes, antibodies, etc., as are known in
the art.
[0044] By "specifically hybridizes" is meant that a probe, primer,
or oligonucleotide recognizes and physically interacts (that is,
base-pairs) with a substantially complementary nucleic acid (for
example, a sample nucleic acid) under high stringency conditions,
and does not substantially base pair with other nucleic acids.
[0045] By "high stringency conditions" is meant typically occur at
about melting temperature (Tm) minus 5.degree. C. (i.e. 5.degree.
below the Tm of the probe). Functionally, high stringency
conditions are used to identify nucleic acid sequences having at
least 80% sequence identity.
[0046] While PCR is the amplification method used in the examples
herein, it is understood that any amplification method that uses a
primer may be suitable. Such suitable procedures include polymerase
chain reaction (PCR); strand displacement amplification (SDA);
nucleic acid sequence-based amplification (NASBA); cascade rolling
circle amplification (CRCA), loop-mediated isothermal amplification
of DNA (LAMP); isothermal and chimeric primer-initiated
amplification of nucleic acids (ICAN); target based-helicase
dependent amplification (HDA); transcription-mediated amplification
(TMA), and the like. Therefore, when the term PCR is used, it
should be understood to include other alternative amplification
methods. For amplification methods without discrete cycles,
reaction time may be used where measurements are made in cycles or
Cp, and additional reaction time may be added where additional PCR
cycles are added in the embodiments described herein. It is
understood that protocols may need to be adjusted accordingly.
[0047] While various examples herein reference human targets and
human pathogens, these examples are illustrative only. Methods,
kits, and devices described herein may be used to detect and
sequence a wide variety of nucleic acid sequences from a wide
variety of samples, including, human, veterinary, industrial, and
environmental.
[0048] Various embodiments disclosed herein use a self-contained
nucleic acid analysis pouch to assay a sample for the presence of
various biological substances, illustratively antigens and nucleic
acid sequences, illustratively in a single closed system. Such
systems, including pouches and instruments for use with the
pouches, are disclosed in more detail in U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,394,608;
and 8,895,295; and U.S. Patent Application No. 2014-0283945, herein
incorporated by reference. However, it is understood that such
pouches are illustrative only, and the nucleic acid preparation and
amplification reactions discussed herein may be performed in any of
a variety of open or closed system sample vessels as are known in
the art, including 96-well plates, plates of other configurations,
arrays, carousels, and the like, using a variety of nucleic acid
purification and amplification systems, as are known in the art.
While the terms "sample well", "amplification well", "amplification
container", or the like are used herein, these terms are meant to
encompass wells, tubes, and various other reaction containers, as
are used in these amplification systems. In one embodiment, the
pouch is used to assay for multiple pathogens. The pouch may
include one or more blisters used as sample wells, illustratively
in a closed system. Illustratively, various steps may be performed
in the optionally disposable pouch, including nucleic acid
preparation, primary large volume multiplex PCR, dilution of
primary amplification product, and secondary PCR, culminating with
optional real-time detection or post-amplification analysis such as
melting-curve analysis. Further, it is understood that while the
various steps may be performed in pouches of the present invention,
one or more of the steps may be omitted for certain uses, and the
pouch configuration may be altered accordingly.
[0049] FIG. 1 shows an illustrative pouch 510 that may be used in
various embodiments, or may be reconfigured for various
embodiments. Pouch 510 is similar to FIG. 15 of U.S. Pat. No.
8,895,295, with like items numbered the same. Fitment 590 is
provided with entry channels 515a through 515l, which also serve as
reagent reservoirs or waste reservoirs. Illustratively, reagents
may be freeze dried in fitment 590 and rehydrated prior to use.
Blisters 522, 544, 546, 548, 564, and 566, with their respective
channels 514, 538, 543, 552, 553, 562, and 565 are similar to
blisters of the same number of FIG. 15 of U.S. Pat. No. 8,895,295.
Second-stage reaction zone 580 of FIG. 1 is similar to that of U.S.
Pat. No. 8,895,295, but the second-stage wells 582 of high density
array 581 are arranged in a somewhat different pattern. The more
circular pattern of high density array 581 of FIG. 1 eliminates
wells in corners and may result in more uniform filling of
second-stage wells 582. As shown, the high density array 581 is
provided with 102 second-stage wells 582. Pouch 510 is suitable for
use in the FilmArray.RTM. instrument (BioFire Diagnostics, LLC,
Salt Lake City, Utah). However, it is understood that the pouch
embodiment is illustrative only.
[0050] While other containers may be used, illustratively, pouch
510 is formed of two layers of a flexible plastic film or other
flexible material such as polyester, polyethylene terephthalate
(PET), polycarbonate, polypropylene, polymethylmethacrylate, and
mixtures thereof that can be made by any process known in the art,
including extrusion, plasma deposition, and lamination. Metal foils
or plastics with aluminum lamination also may be used. Other
barrier materials are known in the art that can be sealed together
to form the blisters and channels. If plastic film is used, the
layers may be bonded together, illustratively by heat sealing.
Illustratively, the material has low nucleic acid binding
capacity.
[0051] For embodiments employing fluorescent monitoring, plastic
films that are adequately low in absorbance and auto-fluorescence
at the operative wavelengths are preferred. Such material could be
identified by testing different plastics, different plasticizers,
and composite ratios, as well as different thicknesses of the film.
For plastics with aluminum or other foil lamination, the portion of
the pouch that is to be read by a fluorescence detection device can
be left without the foil. For example, if fluorescence is monitored
in second-stage wells 582 of the second-stage reaction zone 580 of
pouch 510, then one or both layers at wells 582 would be left
without the foil. In the example of PCR, film laminates composed of
polyester (Mylar, Dupont, Wilmington Del.) of about 0.0048 inch
(0.1219 mm) thick and polypropylene films of 0.001-0.003 inch
(0.025-0.076 mm) thick perform well. Illustratively, pouch 510 is
made of a clear material capable of transmitting approximately
80%-90% of incident light.
[0052] In the illustrative embodiment, the materials are moved
between blisters by the application of pressure, illustratively
pneumatic pressure, upon the blisters and channels. Accordingly, in
embodiments employing pressure, the pouch material illustratively
is flexible enough to allow the pressure to have the desired
effect. The term "flexible" is herein used to describe a physical
characteristic of the material of pouch. The term "flexible" is
herein defined as readily deformable by the levels of pressure used
herein without cracking, breaking, crazing, or the like. For
example, thin plastic sheets, such as SaranTM wrap and Ziploc.RTM.
bags, as well as thin metal foil, such as aluminum foil, are
flexible. However, only certain regions of the blisters and
channels need be flexible, even in embodiments employing pneumatic
pressure. Further, only one side of the blisters and channels need
to be flexible, as long as the blisters and channels are readily
deformable. Other regions of the pouch 510 may be made of a rigid
material or may be reinforced with a rigid material.
[0053] Illustratively, a plastic film is used for pouch 510. A
sheet of metal, illustratively aluminum, or other suitable
material, may be milled or otherwise cut, to create a die having a
pattern of raised surfaces. When fitted into a pneumatic press
(illustratively A-5302-PDS, Janesville Tool Inc., Milton Wis.),
illustratively regulated at an operating temperature of 195.degree.
C., the pneumatic press works like a printing press, melting the
sealing surfaces of plastic film only where the die contacts the
film. Various components, such as PCR primers (illustratively
spotted onto the film and dried), antigen binding substrates,
magnetic beads, and zirconium silicate beads may be sealed inside
various blisters as the pouch 510 is formed. Reagents for sample
processing can be spotted onto the film prior to sealing, either
collectively or separately. In one embodiment, nucleotide
tri-phosphates (NTPs) are spotted onto the film separately from
polymerase and primers, essentially eliminating activity of the
polymerase until the reaction is hydrated by an aqueous sample. If
the aqueous sample has been heated prior to hydration, this creates
the conditions for a true hot-start PCR and reduces or eliminates
the need for expensive chemical hot-start components.
[0054] Pouch 510 may be used in a manner similar to that described
in U.S. Pat. No. 8,895,295. In one illustrative embodiment, a 300
.mu.l mixture comprising the sample to be tested (100 .mu.l) and
lysis buffer (200 .mu.l) is injected into an injection port (not
shown) in fitment 590 near entry channel 515a, and the sample
mixture is drawn into entry channel 515a. Water is also injected
into a second injection port (not shown) of the fitment 590
adjacent entry channel 515l, and is distributed via a channel (not
shown) provided in fitment 590, thereby hydrating up to eleven
different reagents, each of which were previously provided in dry
form at entry channels 515b through 515l via. These reagents
illustratively may include freeze-dried PCR reagents, DNA
extraction reagents, wash solutions, immunoassay reagents, or other
chemical entities. Illustratively, the reagents are for nucleic
acid extraction, first-stage multiplex PCR, dilution of the
multiplex reaction, and preparation of second-stage PCR reagents,
as well as control reactions. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1,
all that need be injected is the sample solution in one injection
port and water in the other injection port. After injection, the
two injection ports may be sealed. For more information on various
configurations of pouch 510 and fitment 590, see U.S. Pat. No.
8,895,295, already incorporated by reference.
[0055] After injection, the sample is moved from injection channel
515a to lysis blister 522 via channel 514. Lysis blister 522 is
provided with beads or particles 534, such as ceramic beads, and is
configured for vortexing via impaction using rotating blades or
paddles provided within the FilmArray.RTM. instrument.
Bead-milling, by shaking or vortexing the sample in the presence of
lysing particles such as zirconium silicate (ZS) beads 534, is an
effective method to form a lysate. It is understood that, as used
herein, terms such as "lyse," "lysing," and "lysate" are not
limited to rupturing cells, but that such terms include disruption
of non-cellular particles, such as viruses.
[0056] FIG. 4 shows a bead beating motor 819, comprising blades 821
that may be mounted on a first side 811 of support member 802, of
instrument 800 shown in FIG. 2. Blades may extend through slot 804
to contact pouch 510. It is understood, however, that motor 819 may
be mounted on other structures of instrument 800. In one
illustrative embodiment, motor 819 is a Mabuchi RC-280SA-2865 DC
Motor (Chiba, Japan), mounted on support member 802. In one
illustrative embodiment, the motor is turned at 5,000 to 25,000
rpm, more illustratively 10,000 to 20,000 rpm, and still more
illustratively approximately 15,000 to 18,000 rpm. For the Mabuchi
motor, it has been found that 7.2V provides sufficient rpm for
lysis. It is understood, however, that the actual speed may be
somewhat slower when the blades 821 are impacting pouch 510. Other
voltages and speeds may be used for lysis depending on the motor
and paddles used. Optionally, controlled small volumes of air may
be provided into the bladder 822 adjacent lysis blister 522. It has
been found that in some embodiments, partially filling the adjacent
bladder with one or more small volumes of air aids in positioning
and supporting lysis blister during the lysis process.
Alternatively, other structure, illustratively a rigid or compliant
gasket or other retaining structure around lysis blister 522, can
be used to restrain pouch 510 during lysis. It is also understood
that motor 819 is illustrative only, and other devices may be used
for milling, shaking, or vortexing the sample.
[0057] Once the cells have been adequately lysed, the sample is
moved through channel 538, blister 544, and channel 543, to blister
546, where the sample is mixed with a nucleic acid-binding
substance, such as silica-coated magnetic beads 533. The mixture is
allowed to incubate for an appropriate length of time,
illustratively approximately 10 seconds to 10 minutes. A
retractable magnet located within the instrument adjacent blister
546 captures the magnetic beads 533 from the solution, forming a
pellet against the interior surface of blister 546. The liquid is
then moved out of blister 546 and back through blister 544 and into
blister 522, which is now used as a waste receptacle. One or more
wash buffers from one or more of injection channels 515c to 515e
are provided via blister 544 and channel 543 to blister 546.
Optionally, the magnet is retracted and the magnetic beads 533 are
washed by moving the beads back and forth from blisters 544 and 546
via channel 543. Once the magnetic beads 533 are washed, the
magnetic beads 533 are recaptured in blister 546 by activation of
the magnet, and the wash solution is then moved to blister 522.
This process may be repeated as necessary to wash the lysis buffer
and sample debris from the nucleic acid-binding magnetic beads 533,
illustratively including 3 or more washes, although one wash may be
sufficient for some embodiments disclosed herein and any number of
washes is within the scope of this disclosure.
[0058] After washing, elution buffer stored at injection channel
515f is moved to blister 548, and the magnet is retracted. The
solution is cycled between blisters 546 and 548 via channel 552,
breaking up the pellet of magnetic beads 533 in blister 546 and
allowing the captured nucleic acids to dissociate from the beads
and come into solution. The magnet is once again activated,
capturing the magnetic beads 533 in blister 546, and the eluted
nucleic acid solution is moved into blister 548.
[0059] First-stage PCR master mix from injection channel 515g is
mixed with the nucleic acid sample in blister 548. Optionally, the
mixture is mixed by forcing the mixture between 548 and 564 via
channel 553. After several cycles of mixing, the solution is
contained in blister 564, where a pellet of first-stage PCR primers
is provided, at least one set of primers for each target, and
first-stage multiplex PCR is performed. If RNA targets are present,
an RT step may be performed prior to or simultaneously with the
first-stage multiplex PCR. First-stage multiplex PCR temperature
cycling in the FilmArray.RTM. instrument is illustratively
performed for 15-20 cycles, although other levels of amplification
may be desirable, depending on the requirements of the specific
application. The first-stage PCR master mix may be any of various
master mixes, as are known in the art. In one illustrative example,
the first-stage PCR master mix may be any of the chemistries
disclosed in US2015/0118715, herein incorporated by reference, for
use with PCR protocols taking 20 seconds or less per cycle.
[0060] After first-stage PCR has proceeded for the desired number
of cycles, the sample may be diluted, illustratively by forcing
most of the sample back into blister 548, leaving only a small
amount in blister 564, and adding second-stage PCR master mix from
injection channel 515i. Alternatively, a dilution buffer from 515i
may be moved to blister 566 then mixed with the amplified sample in
blister 564 by moving the fluids back and forth between blisters
564 and 566. If desired, dilution may be repeated several times,
using dilution buffer from injection channels 515j and 515k, or
injection channel 515k may be reserved for sequencing or for other
post-PCR analysis, and then adding second-stage PCR master mix from
injection channel 515h to some or all of the diluted amplified
sample. It is understood that the level of dilution may be adjusted
by altering the number of dilution steps or by altering the
percentage of the sample discarded prior to mixing with the
dilution buffer or second-stage PCR master mix comprising
components for amplification, illustratively a polymerase, dNTPs,
and a suitable buffer, although other components may be suitable,
particularly for non-PCR amplification methods. If desired, this
mixture of the sample and second-stage PCR master mix may be
pre-heated in blister 564 prior to movement to second-stage wells
582 for second-stage amplification. Such preheating may obviate the
need for a hot-start component (antibody, chemical, or otherwise)
in the second-stage PCR mixture.
[0061] The illustrative second-stage PCR master mix is incomplete,
lacking primer pairs, and each of the 102 second-stage wells 582 is
pre-loaded with a specific PCR primer pair. If desired,
second-stage PCR master mix may lack other reaction components, and
these components may be pre-loaded in the second-stage wells 582 as
well. Each primer pair may be similar to or identical to a
first-stage PCR primer pair or may be nested within the first-stage
primer pair. Movement of the sample from blister 564 to the
second-stage wells 582 completes the PCR reaction mixture. Once
high density array 581 is filled, the individual second-stage
reactions are sealed in their respective second-stage blisters by
any number of means, as is known in the art. Illustrative ways of
filling and sealing the high density array 581 without
cross-contamination are discussed in U.S. Pat. No. 8,895,295,
already incorporated by reference. Illustratively, the various
reactions in wells 582 of high density array 581 are simultaneously
thermal cycled, illustratively with one or more peltier devices,
although other means for thermal cycling are known in the art.
[0062] In certain embodiments, second-stage PCR master mix contains
the dsDNA binding dye LCGreen.RTM. Plus (BioFire Diagnostics, LLC)
to generate a signal indicative of amplification. However, it is
understood that this dye is illustrative only, and that other
signals may be used, including other dsDNA binding dyes and probes
that are labeled fluorescently, radioactively, chemiluminescently,
enzymatically, or the like, as are known in the art. Alternatively,
wells 582 of array 581 may be provided without a signal, with
results reported through subsequent processing.
[0063] When pneumatic pressure is used to move materials within
pouch 510, in one embodiment a "bladder" may be employed. The
bladder assembly 810, a portion of which is shown in FIGS. 2-3,
includes a bladder plate 824 housing a plurality of inflatable
bladders 822, 844, 846, 848, 864, and 866, each of which may be
individually inflatable, illustratively by a compressed gas source.
Because the bladder assembly 810 may be subjected to compressed gas
and used multiple times, the bladder assembly 810 may be made from
tougher or thicker material than the pouch. Alternatively, bladders
822, 844, 846, 848, 864, and 866 may be formed from a series of
plates fastened together with gaskets, seals, valves, and pistons.
Other arrangements are within the scope of this invention.
[0064] Success of the secondary PCR reactions is dependent upon
template generated by the multiplex first-stage reaction.
Typically, PCR is performed using DNA of high purity. Methods such
as phenol extraction or commercial DNA extraction kits provide DNA
of high purity. Samples processed through the pouch 510 may require
accommodations be made to compensate for a less pure preparation.
PCR may be inhibited by components of biological samples, which is
a potential obstacle. Illustratively, hot-start PCR, higher
concentration of taq polymerase enzyme, adjustments in MgCl.sub.2
concentration, adjustments in primer concentration, and addition of
adjuvants (such as DMSO, TMSO, or glycerol) optionally may be used
to compensate for lower nucleic acid purity. While purity issues
are likely to be more of a concern with first-stage amplification,
it is understood that similar adjustments may be provided in the
second-stage amplification as well.
[0065] When pouch 510 is placed within the instrument 800, the
bladder assembly 810 is pressed against one face of the pouch 510,
so that if a particular bladder is inflated, the pressure will
force the liquid out of the corresponding blister in the pouch 510.
In addition to bladders corresponding to many of the blisters of
pouch 510, the bladder assembly 810 may have additional pneumatic
actuators, such as bladders or pneumatically-driven pistons,
corresponding to various channels of pouch 510. FIGS. 2-3 show an
illustrative plurality of pistons or hard seals 838, 843, 852, 853,
and 865 that correspond to channels 538, 543, 553, and 565 of pouch
510, as well as seals 871, 872, 873, 874 that minimize backflow
into fitment 590. When activated, hard seals 838, 843, 852, 853,
and 865 form pinch valves to pinch off and close the corresponding
channels. To confine liquid within a particular blister of pouch
510, the hard seals are activated over the channels leading to and
from the blister, such that the actuators function as pinch valves
to pinch the channels shut. Illustratively, to mix two volumes of
liquid in different blisters, the pinch valve actuator sealing the
connecting channel is activated, and the pneumatic bladders over
the blisters are alternately pressurized, forcing the liquid back
and forth through the channel connecting the blisters to mix the
liquid therein. The pinch valve actuators may be of various shapes
and sizes and may be configured to pinch off more than one channel
at a time. While pneumatic actuators are discussed herein, it is
understood that other ways of providing pressure to the pouch are
contemplated, including various electromechanical actuators such as
linear stepper motors, motor-driven cams, rigid paddles driven by
pneumatic, hydraulic or electromagnetic forces, rollers,
rocker-arms, and in some cases, cocked springs. In addition, there
are a variety of methods of reversibly or irreversibly closing
channels in addition to applying pressure normal to the axis of the
channel. These include kinking the bag across the channel,
heat-sealing, rolling an actuator, and a variety of physical valves
sealed into the channel such as butterfly valves and ball valves.
Additionally, small Peltier devices or other temperature regulators
may be placed adjacent the channels and set at a temperature
sufficient to freeze the fluid, effectively forming a seal. Also,
while the design of FIG. 1 is adapted for an automated instrument
featuring actuator elements positioned over each of the blisters
and channels, it is also contemplated that the actuators could
remain stationary, and the pouch 510 could be transitioned in one
or two dimensions such that a small number of actuators could be
used for several of the processing stations including sample
disruption, nucleic-acid capture, first and second-stage PCR, and
other applications of the pouch 510 such as immuno-assay and
immuno-PCR. Rollers acting on channels and blisters could prove
particularly useful in a configuration in which the pouch 510 is
translated between stations. Thus, while pneumatic actuators are
used in the presently disclosed embodiments, when the term
"pneumatic actuator" is used herein, it is understood that other
actuators and other ways of providing pressure may be used,
depending on the configuration of the pouch and the instrument.
[0066] Other prior art instruments teach PCR within a sealed
flexible container. See, e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,645,758 and
6,780,617, and U.S. Patent Application No. 2014/0038272, herein
incorporated by reference. However, including the cell lysis within
the sealed PCR vessel can improve ease of use and safety,
particularly if the sample to be tested may contain a biohazard. In
the embodiments illustrated herein, the waste from cell lysis, as
well as that from all other steps, remains within the sealed pouch.
However, it is understood that the pouch contents could be removed
for further testing.
[0067] FIG. 2 shows an illustrative instrument 800 that could be
used with pouch 510. Instrument 800 includes a support member 802
that could form a wall of a casing or be mounted within a casing.
Instrument 800 may also include a second support member (not shown)
that is optionally movable with respect to support member 802, to
allow insertion and withdrawal of pouch 510. Illustratively, a lid
may cover pouch 510 once pouch 510 has been inserted into
instrument 800. In another embodiment, both support members may be
fixed, with pouch 510 held into place by other mechanical means or
by pneumatic pressure.
[0068] In the illustrative example, heaters 886 and 888 are mounted
on support member 802. However, it is understood that this
arrangement is illustrative only and that other arrangements are
possible. Bladder plate 810, with bladders 822, 844, 846, 848, 864,
866, hard seals 838, 843, 852, 853, seals 871, 872, 873, 874 form
bladder assembly 808 may illustratively be mounted on a moveable
support structure that may be moved toward pouch 510, such that the
pneumatic actuators are placed in contact with pouch 510. When
pouch 510 is inserted into instrument 800 and the movable support
member is moved toward support member 802, the various blisters of
pouch 510 are in a position adjacent to the various bladders of
bladder assembly 810 and the various seals of assembly 808, such
that activation of the pneumatic actuators may force liquid from
one or more of the blisters of pouch 510 or may form pinch valves
with one or more channels of pouch 510. The relationship between
the blisters and channels of pouch 510 and the bladders and seals
of assembly 808 is illustrated in more detail in FIG. 3.
[0069] Each pneumatic actuator is connected to compressed air
source 895 via valves 899. While only several hoses 878 are shown
in FIG. 2, it is understood that each pneumatic fitting is
connected via a hose 878 to the compressed gas source 895.
Compressed gas source 895 may be a compressor, or, alternatively,
compressed gas source 895 may be a compressed gas cylinder, such as
a carbon dioxide cylinder. Compressed gas cylinders are
particularly useful if portability is desired. Other sources of
compressed gas are within the scope of this invention.
[0070] Assembly 808 is illustratively mounted on a movable support
member, although it is understood that other configurations are
possible.
[0071] Several other components of instrument 810 are also
connected to compressed gas source 895. A magnet 850, which is
mounted on a second side 814 of support member 802, is
illustratively deployed and retracted using gas from compressed gas
source 895 via hose 878, although other methods of moving magnet
850 are known in the art. Magnet 850 sits in recess 851 in support
member 802. It is understood that recess 851 can be a passageway
through support member 802, so that magnet 850 can contact blister
546 of pouch 510. However, depending on the material of support
member 802, it is understood that recess 851 need not extend all
the way through support member 802, as long as when magnet 850 is
deployed, magnet 850 is close enough to provide a sufficient
magnetic field at blister 546, and when magnet 850 is retracted,
magnet 850 does not significantly affect any magnetic beads 533
present in blister 546. While reference is made to retracting
magnet 850, it is understood that an electromagnet may be used and
the electromagnet may be activated and inactivated by controlling
flow of electricity through the electromagnet. Thus, while this
specification discusses withdrawing or retracting the magnet, it is
understood that these terms are broad enough to incorporate other
ways of withdrawing the magnetic field. It is understood that the
pneumatic connections may be pneumatic hoses or pneumatic air
manifolds, thus reducing the number of hoses or valves
required.
[0072] The various pneumatic pistons 868 of pneumatic piston array
869 are also connected to compressed gas source 895 via hoses 878.
While only two hoses 878 are shown connecting pneumatic pistons 868
to compressed gas source 895, it is understood that each of the
pneumatic pistons 868 are connected to compressed gas source 895.
Twelve pneumatic pistons 868 are shown.
[0073] A pair of heating/cooling devices, illustratively Peltier
heaters, are mounted on a second side 814 of support 802.
First-stage heater 886 is positioned to heat and cool the contents
of blister 564 for first-stage PCR. Second-stage heater 888 is
positioned to heat and cool the contents of second-stage blisters
582 of pouch 510, for second-stage PCR. It is understood, however,
that these heaters could also be used for other heating purposes,
and that other heaters may be included, as appropriate for the
particular application.
[0074] When fluorescent detection is desired, an optical array 890
may be provided. As shown in FIG. 2, optical array 890 includes a
light source 898, illustratively a filtered LED light source,
filtered white light, or laser illumination, and a camera 896.
Camera 896 illustratively has a plurality of photodetectors each
corresponding to a second-stage well 582 in pouch 510.
Alternatively, camera 896 may take images that contain all of the
second-stage wells 582, and the image may be divided into separate
fields corresponding to each of the second-stage wells 582.
Depending on the configuration, optical array 890 may be
stationary, or optical array 890 may be placed on movers attached
to one or more motors and moved to obtain signals from each
individual second-stage well 582. It is understood that other
arrangements are possible.
[0075] As shown, a computer 894 controls valves 899 of compressed
air source 895, and thus controls all of the pneumatics of
instrument 800. Computer 894 also controls heaters 886 and 888, and
optical array 890. Each of these components is connected
electrically, illustratively via cables 891, although other
physical or wireless connections are within the scope of this
invention. It is understood that computer 894 may be housed within
instrument 800 or may be external to instrument 800. Further,
computer 894 may include built-in circuit boards that control some
or all of the components, and may also include an external
computer, such as a desktop or laptop PC, to receive and display
data from the optical array. An interface, illustratively a
keyboard interface, may be provided including keys for inputting
information and variables such as temperatures, cycle times, etc.
Illustratively, a display 892 is also provided. Display 892 may be
an LED, LCD, or other such display, for example.
EXAMPLES
Example 1
High Density PCR
[0076] In one example, it is known that standard commercial
immunofluorescence assays for the common respiratory viruses can
detect seven viruses: adenovirus, PIV1, PIV2, PIV3, RSV, Influenza
A, and Influenza B. A more complete panel illustratively would
include assays for other viruses including: coronavirus, human
metapneumovirus, rhinovirus, and non-HRV enterovirus. For highly
variable viruses such as Adenovirus or HRV, it is desirable to use
multiple primers to target all of the branches of the virus'
lineage (illustratively 4 outer and 4 inner primer sets
respectively). For other viruses such as coronavirus, there are 4
distinct lineages (229E, NL63, OC43, HKU1) that do not vary from
one season to another, but they have diverged sufficiently enough
that separate primer sets are required. The FilmArray.RTM.
Respiratory Panel (BioFire Diagnostics, LLC of Salt Lake City,
Utah) includes Adenovirus, Coronavirus HKU1, Coronavirus NL63,
Coronavirus 229E, Coronavirus OC43, Human Metapneumovirus, Human
Rhinovirus/Enterovirus, Influenza A, Influenza A/H1, Influenza
A/H3, Influenza A/H1-2009, Influenza B, Parainfluenza Virus 1,
Parainfluenza Virus 2, Parainfluenza Virus 3, Parainfluenza Virus
4, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus. In addition to these viruses,
the FilmArray.RTM. Respiratory Panel includes three bacteria:
Bordetella pertussis, Chlamydophila pneumonia, and Mycoplasma
pneumonia. The high density array 581 is able to accommodate such a
panel in a single pouch 510. Other panels are available for the
FilmArray.RTM., each assaying for at least 20 pathogens.
[0077] EXAMPLE 2: POUCH LOADING
[0078] FIG. 5 shows a loading station 600. As shown, pouch 510 of
FIG. 1 has been loaded into slot 610 of loading station 600, such
that only fitment 590 of pouch 510 is visible. As shown, loading
station 600 is provided with a sample vial receptacle 602 for
holding sample vial 650 and hydration vial receptacle 604 for
holding hydration vial 670. However, it is understood that the
receptacles and vials are for aiding workflow and are illustrative
only. Other configurations and use with other pouches and other
devices are within the scope of this disclosure.
[0079] A sample is pipetted or otherwise loaded into sample vial
650. As discussed in more detail below, depending on work flow,
sample vial 650 may already contain a buffer or other fluid 652 for
receiving the biological sample, or the operator may add the
biological sample in an appropriate buffer to sample vial 650.
Optionally, the buffer may be provided in a separate ampoule, with
an appropriate amount of buffer apportioned. Similarly, hydration
vial 670 may be preloaded with water, buffer, or other fluid 672,
or the operator may load hydration vial 670 with such fluid.
[0080] Illustrative fitment 590 includes an injection port 541
illustratively formed near second surface 595 of fitment 590. As
shown, injection port 541 is located in sample injection opening
563, which is configured to receive a cannulated transfer vessel
through first surface 594 of fitment 590, such as a cannulated
syringe. In this illustrative configuration, injection port 541 is
protected from accidental puncture and is not opened until a
cannulated transfer vessel is placed into sample injection opening
563. Similarly, illustrative fitment 590 includes a second
injection port 588 illustratively formed near second surface 595 of
fitment 590, and is located in hydration fluid injection opening
583, which is configured similarly to sample injection opening 563.
As configured in this illustrative embodiment, injection port 541
is for receiving the sample to be tested, which sample will be
moved to chamber 592a or directly into lysis blister 522 (FIG. 1),
and second injection port 588 is configured for receiving the
hydration fluid 672 (displayed in FIG. 7), such as water or buffer,
which hydration fluid 672 will be moved to chambers 592b through
592l, for subsequent movement through entry channels 515b through
515l. It is understood that the arrangement of injection ports 541
and 588 and openings 563 and 583 is illustrative and that other
configurations are within the scope of this disclosure.
[0081] Illustrative sample vial 650, as best shown in FIG. 6, is
comprised of a top surface 662, a vial body 654, and a cannula 655,
in an arrangement similar to many cannulated syringes. In this
illustrative embodiment, rather than the plunger found in many
cannulated syringes, sample vial 650 is provided with a cap 658 for
extending through top surface 662 for sealing body 654.
Illustratively, the operator would pour, pipette, insert swab,
scoop solid or semi-solid material, or otherwise transfer a fluid
and/or other materials through opening 657 in top surface 662 and
into vial body 654.
[0082] Depending on the type of sample to be tested, sample vial
650 may be provided with a filter 646, illustratively located at or
near the hexagonal bottom surface 666 of vial body 654. As shown,
filter 646 is held in place by o-ring 644. However, it is
understood that filter 646 may be held in place by adhesive, by
welding, by being press-fit into place, or by other means, as are
known in the art. When cannula 655 is inserted into sample
injection opening 563 and the sample is drawn into pouch 510, the
sample material is filtered as it is pulled through filter 646 and
into cannula 655. While the selection of filter material depends on
the sample type and particle size, suitable filters for various
biological samples include Pall 100 .mu.m Absolute Ultipleat
Polypropylene Melt Blown Media and Millipore 80 .mu.m Polypropylene
Net Filter. Most syringe filters are designed to exclude organisms
of a certain size, thereby removing those organisms from the
filtrate. Unlike such pre-existing filters, these illustrative
filters were chosen based on their ability to exclude larger
particulates found in stool, soil, powder, etc., while allowing
target organisms (e.g., bacterial, viral, protozoan and fungal
organisms) of approximately 60 .mu.m in diameter or less to pass
through in the filter. Also, the illustrative filter material is
inert (i.e. does not bind organism or nucleic acid) and is
relatively resistant to clogging. It is understood that these
illustrative filters were chosen for samples that include
protozoans as target organisms (up to about 60 .mu.m). Because some
pouch configurations may test only for smaller targets, filters
with a smaller pore size may be desired, such as filters with pore
sizes of 1-10 .mu.m for bacteria and fungi, and pore sizes of less
than 1 .mu.m if only viral particles are to be detected. Of course,
the larger pore size filter can still be used to filter smaller
targets. Such filters may be particularly useful for sample types
that have a large amount of particulate matter, such as soil,
stool, and powder that may clog the fluid system. Further, it is
understood that the pore size is chosen based on the materials to
be filtered, and that other pore sizes are within the scope of this
invention.
[0083] It is understood that one or more components useful for
sample preparation may be provided dried in vial body 654. Such
additives may include buffering agents, stabilizers, proteases,
DNAses, DNAse inhibitors, RNases, RNase inhibitors, lysozymes,
reducing agents, and the like. Alternatively, such components may
be included in the sample buffer, or may be added downstream, after
the sample has exited vial 650 for further processing. It is
understood that the selection of such additives depends on the
sample type and on the further processing desired. Additives that
help reduce viscosity or aid in solubility, to allow the sample to
pass through filter 646 are particularly helpful.
[0084] As shown, bottom cap 664 is provided with a hexagonal
portion 666, which is configured to fit into the hexagonally shaped
sample vial receptacle 602. While hexagonal portion 666 and sample
vial receptacle are hexagonal in the illustrative embodiment, it is
understood that other shapes may be used, and that the hexagonal or
other mating or interlocking shapes may be provided to assist the
operator in removing bottom cap 664. Alternatively, the operator
may remove bottom cap 664 by other means, such as using two hands
to twist bottom cap 664 from vial body 654. Bottom cap 654 may be
press-fit on, threaded onto, or otherwise affixed to vial body
654.
[0085] In the illustrative embodiment, bottom cap 664 is provided
with a seat 648, whereby a bottom end 659 of cannula 655 extends
into seat 648. Illustratively, bottom end 659 of cannula 655 fits
tightly into seat 648, such that seat 648 provides an airtight seal
around the open bottom end 659 of cannula 655. Optionally, vents
649 are provided between bottom cap 664 and vial body 654.
[0086] Turning now to FIG. 7, hydration vial 670 may be configured
similarly to sample vial 650. However, it may be desirable to
preload hydration vial 670 with hydration fluid 672 and pre-seal
the hydration fluid 672 in hydration vial 670, as shown in FIG. 7.
Illustrative hydration vial 670, as shown in FIG. 7, is comprised
of a top surface 682, a vial body 674, and a cannula 675, in an
arrangement similar to that of sample vial 650. However, tongue 680
of cap 678 of illustrative hydration vial 670 is already press-fit
into opening 677 of top surface 682, and cap 678 may be sealed to
top surface 682, thereby preventing opening of hydration vial 670.
This arrangement is illustrative only, and it is understood that
other ways of sealing hydration fluid 672 within hydration vial 670
are envisioned herein. Illustratively, vial body 674 and cannula
675 may be provided completely full or essentially completely full
of fluid, so that handling or rotating hydration vial 670 will not
permit air to enter cannula 675. Alternatively, some air 685 or
other gas may be present within vial body 674, and the operator may
maintain hydration body in an upright position to prevent air from
entering cannula 675. In yet another alternative embodiment, the
air 685 may be provided under pressure, and removal of bottom cap
684 would result in hydration fluid being forced through cannula
675. As shown, hydration vial 670 is not provided with a filter,
although one may be provided, if desired.
[0087] Bottom cap 684 may be provided to retain any fluid that
might drip from cannula 675, as well as preventing contamination of
hydration fluid 672 in cannula 675. A wiper 683 may be provided in
bottom cap 684 to wipe excess fluid from the bottom of cannula 675.
The conical shape of wiper 683 may also aid in retaining drips in
bottom cap 684 during subsequent handling and disposal. In the
illustrative embodiment, bottom cap 684 is provided with a
hexagonal portion 686 for mating with the hexagonally shaped
hydration vial receptacle 604, although other shapes are possible,
as discussed above, with respect to sample vial 650. Hexagonal
portion 686 of hydration vial 670 and hexagonally shaped hydration
vial receptacle 604 may be of different dimensions and/or different
shapes than hexagonal portion 666 of sample vial 650 and
hexagonally shaped sample vial receptacle 602, such that only
sample vial 650 will readily fit into sample vial receptacle 602
and only hydration vial 670 will readily fit into hydration vial
receptacle 604, to reduce the chance of the operator confusing the
sample vial 650 and hydration vial 670, so that the proper fluids
are injected through ports 541 and 588. In addition, sample vial
650 and injection opening 563 may be partially or entirely provided
in a matching specific color, illustratively red, while hydration
vial 670 and injection opening 583 may be partially or entirely
provided in a different matching specific color, illustratively
blue, to provide the operator with visual assistance in providing
the proper fluids in ports 541 and 588. To further minimize risk of
inserting the wrong liquid into the wrong injection opening, the
diameter of cannula 655 may differ from the diameter of cannula
675, and the diameters of sample injection opening 563 and
hydration fluid injection opening 583 may similarly differ. Other
configurations are within the scope of this disclosure.
[0088] Returning to FIG. 5, illustratively, to load pouch 510, the
operator would place sample vial 650 into sample vial receptacle
602 and hydration vial 670 into hydration vial receptacle 604 on
loading station 600. Pouch 510 would also be placed into slot 610.
The sample would be placed into the sample buffer 652 in any way
suitable for the sample type, including inserting a swab 630,
pipetting a fluid sample, dripping blood from a patient directly
into the vial body, and placing a solid or semi-solid sample such
as stool into the vial body, with optional vortexing or other
mixing, as is standard in the art. Depending on the sample type and
desired target nucleic acids, the sample buffer may contain one or
more additives or stabilizers, illustratively for treating a
biological or environmental sample, such as proteases, DNases,
DNase inhibitors, RNases, RNase inhibitors, lysozymes, and the
like. Additionally or alternatively, these additives may be
provided in the pouch 510. Preferably before vortexing or mixing,
the operator would close sample vial 650 by placing the tongue 660
of cap 658 through opening 657. Inserting tongue 660 pressurizes
the air contained within vial body 654. Illustratively, tongue 660
has a volume equal to or greater than the volume of cannula 655.
Illustratively, when bottom cap 664 is removed, the airtight seal
between seat 648 bottom end 659 of cannula 655 is broken, and
substantially all air is forced out of cannula 655. If the volume
of tongue 660 is greater than the volume of cannula 655, such would
help ensure that the maximal amount of air is displaced from
cannula 655. Any overflow in the amount of fluid forced into and
potentially through cannula 655 can be captured in bottom cap 664
and removed from the bottom of cannula 655 by wiper 663. By
completely or essentially completely filling cannula 655, the
quantity of bubbles in pouch 510 upon loading of the pouch is
minimized. One or more vents 649 may aid in separation of bottom
cap 664 from hydration vial 650.
[0089] Because bottom cap 664 is provided with a hexagonal portion
666, which is configured to fit into the hexagonally shaped sample
vial receptacle 602, the operator can easily twist off bottom cap
654 while bottom cap is engaging receptacle 602, thereby exposing
cannula 655. Cannula 655 is then inserted into sample injection
opening 563 and is pushed in, opening injection port 541. A vacuum
inside pouch 590 (or reduced pressure inside the pouch relative to
atmospheric pressure or pressure outside the pouch) illustratively
forces the sample through the filter (if present), with or without
pressure from the vial body, may be used to draw the sample into
pouch 510, illustratively into chamber 592a in fitment 590, for
subsequent movement into lysis chamber 522. By assuring that
cannula 655 is substantially filled with fluid 652, the amount of
air or other gas moved from sample vial 650 into pouch 510 is
minimized, thereby minimizing the size and quantity of bubbles.
Furthermore, when a prior art syringe with a plunger is used and
the vacuum inside pouch 590 draws fluid, the plunger is drawn down
the syringe, thereby equilibrating the pressure inside the syringe.
In the embodiment of FIGS. 5-6, because the opening at the top of
each of the vial bodies is sealed, when the vacuum from inside
pouch 590 draws fluid from the vial, the vial will also experience
negative pressure and may degas the sample and draw some remaining
air bubbles out of the pouch 590. Cannula 655 is then withdrawn
from sample injection opening 563 and sample vial 650 and bottom
cap 664 are disposed of according to protocols. Since the vial body
654 is under negative pressure, as cannula 655 is withdrawn, air
bubbles that may have collected near injection port 541 may be
drawn out of pouch 510, further reducing air bubbles in the
pouch.
[0090] Similarly, the operator twists off bottom cap 684 from
hydration vial 670, thereby exposing cannula 675. If the contents
of hydration vial 670 are provided under pressure, a small amount
of hydration fluid may leak out into bottom cap 684 when cannula
675 is separated from seat 692. One or more vents 693 may aid in
separation of bottom cap 684 from hydration vial 670. Cannula 675
is then inserted into hydration injection opening 583 and is pushed
in, opening injection port 588. Vacuum from inside fitment 590 may
be used to draw the hydration fluid into pouch 510, illustratively
into chambers 592b-592l, for subsequent movement into various
blisters of pouch 510. Cannula 675 is removed from hydration
injection opening 583, pouch 510 is removed from loading station
600 and placed into instrument 800, and the run started. It is
understood that removal of the vials is illustrative only. If the
configuration of the instrument and vials permit, the vials may be
inserted permanently in the injection ports, thereby becoming part
of the closed system of the pouch and minimizing contamination from
the sample. In such an embodiment, a seal bar may not be
needed.
[0091] In the illustrative embodiment of sample vial 650 discussed
above, tongue 660 has a volume equal to or greater than the volume
of cannula 655. In one exemplary embodiment where the pouch 510 has
a fill volume of 1 ml, vial body 654 may be provided with 1.5 ml of
sample fluid 652 and volume of 1 ml of air 645 above the sample
fluid. Thus, the air is 40% of the volume of the vial body 654.
However, it is understood that other percentages of air may be
used, including 10%, 20%, 30% 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, and amounts in
between. When tongue 660 is inserted through opening 657, the air
above the sample fluid is compressed, illustratively by about 50%,
but compression in the range of 40-60%, 30-70%, 20-80%, and 10-90%
are all possible. It is understood that choice of volume of air and
sample fluid depends on size of sample, diameter of cannula,
whether removal of the vials prior to running the fluidic reaction
is desired, and on a number of other factors. For example, scooped
or swabbed samples may need a significantly larger volume of sample
fluid, regardless of the fill volume of the fluidic system.
[0092] Illustrative vial bodies 654 and 674 are cylindrical.
However, since these illustrative vials are provided without
plungers, it is understood that the vial bodies need not have
circular cross-sections, and that any body shape is within the
scope of this invention.
[0093] FIGS. 8-10 show an alternative embodiment to loading station
600 and vials 650, 670, with like numbers indicating similar parts.
Loading station 700, as shown in FIG. 8, may be similar to loading
station 600, with sample vial receptacle 702 and hydration vial
receptacle 704, and slot 710 for receiving pouch 510, similar to
those shown in FIG. 1. However, according to at least one
embodiment, the shape and location of the receptacles are
significantly different between loading station 600 and loading
station 700. For instance, in at least one embodiment, as compared
to receptacles 602, 604 of loading station 600, receptacles 702 and
704 are closer to pouch 510. With this reduced distance, there is
less opportunity for drips to occur upon loading pouch 510.
Furthermore, as best seen in FIGS. 9-10, bottom cap 764 of sample
vial 750 is provided with four relatively short fins 767 that fit
within four matching slots 703 of sample vial receptacle 702, and
bottom cap 784 of hydration vial 770 is provided with two
relatively longer fins 787 that fit within two matching slots 705
of hydration vial receptacle 704. These fins replace the hexagonal
portions 666 and 686 of vials 650 and 670, respectively. The larger
number of fins 767 on bottom cap 764 prevents sample vial 750 from
being placed in hydration vial receptacle 704, and the longer fins
787 of bottom cap 784 prevents hydration vial 770 from being placed
in sample vial receptacle 702. However, it is understood that the
use of fins of different sizes and numbers is illustrative only,
and that different keying systems are within the scope of this
disclosure. As discussed above with respect to loading station 600,
the receptacles 702, 704 of loading station 700 may be used to
assist with twisting off bottom caps 764, 784 from their respective
vial bodies 754, 774, to aid with the loading process.
[0094] While sample vials 650, 750 and hydration vials 670, 770 are
used in the illustrative example for loading of pouch 510, it is
understood that these loading vials are suitable for loading any of
the pouches disclosed herein. They are also suitable for loading
other fluidic or microfluidic device, especially fluidic devices
that are configured to draw liquid into the fluidic device using
vacuum or suction.
Example 3
Sample Preparation
[0095] In this illustrative embodiment, samples from lower
respiratory tract infections (LRTI) are used. However, it is
understood that the present methods may be suitable for other
sample types, including but not limited to difficult-to-process
biological and environmental sample types, and is particularly
useful for any sample type that is selectively bound and then
released from the collection material. LRTIs are common ailments,
but identification of the etiological agent can be difficult as a
result of biased diagnostic techniques and inhibitory specimen
characteristics. The current "Gold Standard" for pathogen
identification is bacterial culture, which is highly subjective,
lacks sensitivity, and is an incomplete screening method, as
culture is only capable of identifying culturable pathogens,
whereas non-culturable pathogens go undetected. LRTI specimens
include multiple specimen types such as broncho-alveolar lavage
(BAL), mini-BAL, bronchial washings, sputum, and endotracheal
aspirates (ETAs), all of which have unique and often challenging
characteristics. Sputum and ETA specimens can be difficult to
manipulate, can be slow to process, and may be highly inhibitory
toward molecular detection methods. Additionally, LRTI pathogens
include gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, viruses, and
fungal organisms, often requiring a variety of sample processing
methods.
[0096] Sputum is a semi-solid sample matrix, with variable
viscosity and particulates. BALs can have a viscosity similar to
clean saline or can have a viscosity similar to sputum, both of
which can present processing challenges. Difficulties include
un-pipetable specimens, inaccurate pipetting volumes due to
variable viscosity, air pockets, pull-back, remnants, and foaming
during pouch injection or sample manipulation. With the high
viscosity, it can be difficult to isolate pathogens from the sample
matrix. In addition, RNase activity found in such samples can
affect RNA detection. With such sample types, a combination of
physical and chemical lysis can be effective.
[0097] The sputum sample may be obtained using any suitable means,
including having the patient expectorate into a suitable collection
vessel or inducing the patient to produce a specimen. Most pathogen
detection methods use a volume transfer system that can be
difficult to use with sputum or other viscous samples. Typically,
the sample is pre-treated to liquidize the sample for subsequent
pipetting. In one illustrative embodiment, swabs are used to
transfer sample, reducing or eliminated the need for a
pre-treatment step. While pipets, other swabs, and other transfer
devices may be used for transfer of the sample, use of flocked swab
provides a simple and easy method to introduce a specimen into the
testing system while minimizing issues with specimen manipulation.
One suitable swab is FLOQSwabs.TM. (Copan Diagnostics, Murrieta,
Calif.). This illustrative flocked swab is hydrophilic and is well
suited to collect pathogens. For such viscous samples,
illustratively having a viscosity of 3 cP or greater, or solid or
semi-solid samples, the flocked swab may preferentially collect
organism over solid material. The flocked swab may also
preferentially release organism over sample matrix material. Other
materials that preferentially collect and release organism over
sample matrix may be used to transfer the sample and it is
understood that a swab format is illustrative only.
[0098] In one illustrative embodiment, the swab 630 may be placed
into the sample collected from the patient or may be placed into an
environmental sample. The swab 630 then may be placed directly into
sample buffer 652 in sample vial 650. Sample buffer 652 may be any
buffer, depending on the sample type. As shown in FIG. 6, if
desired, the tip of the swab 630 may be broken off and cap 658 may
be used to close vial body 654. The presence of the swab tip 630
within vial body 654 should not significantly affect the use of
vial 650. Vial 650 may be shaken, illustratively by inverting three
times, or shaken more vigorously illustratively for 10 seconds, to
release any pathogens that are present from the swab 630.
Alternatively, swab 630 may be swirled in the sample buffer 652 and
then swab 630 may be removed from vial 650. While not being bound
to theory, it is believed that flocked swabs can preferentially
collect cells, organisms, and viruses over sample matrices, and
then may retain a portion of the sample matrices such as viscous
sputum material while at least releasing organisms and viruses.
However, it is understood that other swabs or transfer devices may
be used in various embodiments. Illustratively, any transfer
material that selectively collects and releases the desired sample
over the sample matrix can be used to concentrate the sample. Such
materials include swabs, brushes, sponges, filters, utensils,
loops, paper, or other adsorbent material that selectively binds
and releases the desired sample and can be placed in contact with
the sample during transfer of the sample for analysis.
[0099] Thus, it has been found that such a flocked swab is suitable
for both collection and release of pathogens in viscous samples
such as LRTI samples, and the flocked swab provides a fairly
uniform collection volume. A single FLOQSwabs.TM. swab collects
approximately 150 to 300 .mu.l of sample, including higher
viscosity sample types such as sputum, in a fairly reproducible
manner. Other materials that reproducibly collect viscous samples
with a small sample volume range, illustratively a two-fold to
four-fold volume range, are within the scope of the invention. It
is understood that a sample volume range is the range of volumes
that a sample collection material reproducibly collects, such that
an illustrative two-fold range is 150 to 300 .mu.l and an
illustrative four-fold range is 150 to 600 .mu.l, although other
ranges, including other two-fold and four-fold ranges are within
the scope of the invention. Illustrative examples include swabs
that are sized to collect 50 to 150 .mu.l, as well as 300 to 1000
.mu.l of sample, and possibly 5 to 10 ml, although it is understood
that these ranges are illustrative and that other size ranges are
possible. While such swabs may be used to collect specimens from a
patient, in one illustrative embodiment, the swab is used collect
the specimen in a reproducible manner and to transfer the sample
from a suitable collection vessel to another vessel for further
processing. However, it is understood that other suitable
collection and transfer materials may be used with various
embodiments disclosed herein, as are known in the art.
[0100] It is known in the art to pretreat difficult samples for a
period of time. For example, sputum may be treated with
dithiothreitol (DTT) and/or heat for 15 minutes or more, sometimes
30 minutes or more. A sample buffer 652 may be used that may
partially or completely liquefy sputum-like specimens,
illustratively without such a pretreatment. Buffers known in the
art often use detergents at amounts of 10% or less by volume. An
illustrative sample buffer 652 according to the present invention
may contain 10% or more detergent, illustratively 12%, 15%, 18%,
20% or more detergent. Suitable detergents include non-ionic, ionic
and zwitterionic detergents may be used. In one illustrative
embodiment, a non-ionic detergent such as 15% Triton-X may be used.
Other non-limiting detergents include Tween-20, SDS, and NP-40. It
has been found that this higher concentration of detergent may
reduce or eliminate the need for a pretreatment such as heating the
sample or a DTT mixture pretreatment, prior to nucleic acid
extraction. Thus, the sample may be processed with only 5 minutes
or less, 2 minutes or less, one minute or less, or even without a
hold time. However, it is understood that a pretreatment may be
desirable with some sample types. The sample buffer 652 may also
contain a guanidinium compound, such as guanidine hydrochloride. In
one illustrative example, the buffer is acidic, illustratively with
a pH from about 2 to about 6. In certain sample preparation
methods, illustratively when the sample type is blood or a blood
component, an alcohol such as isopropanol is used in the sample
buffer 652. However, other sample buffers may be alcohol-free. It
has been found that in various illustrative embodiments employing
detergents at a concentration of 10% or more, illustratively 15%,
the alcohol may be omitted from the sample buffer 652.
[0101] As discussed above, sample vial 650 may be provided with
filter 646. When cannula 655 is inserted into sample injection
opening 653 and the sample is drawn into pouch 510, the sample
material is filtered as it is pulled through filter 646 and into
cannula 655. Such a filter 646 may clog with viscous samples such
as sputum. In some embodiments, sample vial 650 may be provided
with a protease, such as Proteinase K, or the protease may be
otherwise provided in sample vial 650 or may be added along with
sample buffer 652. If the protease is provided in dried form,
introduction of sample buffer 652 rehydrates the protease, and
introduction of the sample into sample buffer 652 allows the
protease to begin to break down the proteins in the sample, even
before the sample is transferred into pouch 510 and reaches lysis
blister 522. Action of the protease may aid in reducing the
viscosity of the sample, thereby improving the sample's ability to
pass through filter 646, or improve other downstream processing
steps. Thus, more of the pathogens may be liberated from the sample
with protease present in the sample vial 650. However, in some
embodiments using a protease, it may be desirable to add the
protease into the sample buffer directly or add the protease later
in the process, illustratively by having it dried in entry channel
515b, while in other embodiments, the protease may be omitted.
[0102] It is understood that preferentially transferring the
pathogens by using a flocked swab, higher detergent concentration,
filtering through a filter 646 in the presence of a protease, or a
combination thereof may obviate the need for a heat or DTT
pre-treatment and may break up such viscous samples sufficiently.
Such samples may then be ready for a subsequent lysis step,
followed by PCR or other testing.
[0103] While the above illustrative description focuses on sputum
and other LRTI sample types, it is understood that the above
methods and devices may be used with a wide variety of sample
types, particularly, but not limited to, difficult sample types. In
addition to sputum, BAL, and other LRTI sample types, other
difficult biological samples include but are not limited to mucus,
stool, tissue, tissue homogenate, ground tissue, paraffin treated
formalin embedded tissue, bone, bone homogenate, eschars, puss,
synovial fluid, lymph node aspirates, and stomach washings.
Environmental samples, illustratively soil, surfaces, powders or
food, may also present challenges. Transferring using a flocked
swab or other transfer means that preferentially collect and
release pathogens allows for relatively consistent collection of
the pathogens, even from samples that are difficult to pipet or
measure accurately. A sample buffer that partially or completely
liquefies the sample matrix may be used. Drawing the sample through
a filter, illustratively in the presence of higher concentrations
of detergent or additives to aid in sample preparation, helps to
break up the sample matrix to provide a sample in a format suitable
for further processing.
Example 4
Direct Blood Samples
[0104] In this embodiment direct blood samples are used for host
RNA analysis. As used herein, "direct blood" means blood samples
that have not been cultured. Illustrative direct blood samples
include whole blood direct from a host organism, illustratively a
human, a whole blood fraction (e.g. plasma, or serum), whole blood
collected in an anticoagulant solution (e.g. EDTA, Citrate), or
whole blood collected in a RNA stabilizing solution. It is
understood that host response to infectious, acute, and/or chronic
diseases results in changes in production of certain RNA molecules,
including but not limited to ribosomal RNA, messenger RNA (mRNA),
long noncoding RNA, or small interfering RNA. Such changes in RNA
production may be used to indicate the source of the host's
illness. The RNA in a direct blood sample is generally purified
with automated or manual extraction methods comprised of
centrifugation, washing, addition of optimized buffers, protein and
nucleic acid digests, often with additional washing, and elution.
In many prior art methods, this is all completed using equipment
separate from the end point molecular diagnostic tool and often
requires 90 minutes or more. The resultant purified samples are
then manually added to an end point molecular diagnostic system
such as a cDNA microarray or a qPCR instrument. The process for
purifying host RNA samples often requires significant time,
external equipment, and sample manipulation, all of which can
influence sample integrity and quality. An alternative approach is
to add the direct blood sample (illustratively in any of the forms
defined above) directly to a sample buffer 652. An illustrative
sample buffer contains a chaotropic agent that assists in the
binding and recovery of nucleic acids, while reducing proteins like
RNAses that can degrade RNA. Illustratively, the ratio of direct
blood sample to sample buffer is in a range from 1 to 8 to 1 to 1,
more specifically in a range from 1 to 5 to 1 to 1.67, although it
is understood that other ratios are possible. This sample may then
be loaded directly into pouch 510, as discussed above. Host RNA is
extracted and purified within the closed system, as discussed
above, illustratively with only minimal mixing in vial 650 or
without any additional user manipulation. Such sample prep can be
completed without any or all of steps involving centrifugation,
ethanol precipitation, and DNA digestion. Thus, the sample may be
processed with only 2 minutes or less and require no external
equipment from the end point molecular diagnostic tool.
[0105] An example of this application is the detection of host RNA
changes in response to an influenza infection. One-hundred
microliters of (100 .mu.L) whole blood sample collected in a RNA
stabilizing solution according to manufacturer instructions was
added to sample buffer 652, illustratively the sample buffer
provided with the FilmArray Respiratory Panel (BioFire Diagnostics,
LLC). Illustratively, 300 to 900 .mu.l, or 2-5 fold the volume of
the sample of sample buffer may be used. This mixture was then
injected into a disposable pouch 510. Sample extraction,
purification, reverse-transcription, and two stage of polymerase
chain reaction resulted in measurements of significantly
upregulated host RNA in response to viral infection relative to a
healthy control. The entire process of sample purification and qPCR
analysis took less than 70 minutes.
[0106] A further example of this application is the detection of
host RNA from whole blood collected in an anticoagulant solution
(EDTA). One-hundred microliters of (100 .mu.L) this whole blood
sample was added to 800 .mu.L of the same sample buffer. This
mixture was then injected into a pouch 510. Sample extraction,
purification, reverse-transcription, and two stages of polymerase
chain reaction resulted in measurements host RNA. The entire
process of sample purification and qPCR analysis took less than 70
minutes.
[0107] These examples demonstrate that nucleic acids,
illustratively high copy number nucleic acids including but not
limited to various RNA molecules, bacteria, viruses, or other
microorganisms, may be extracted from direct blood samples using
only lysis, illustratively chemical and/or mechanical lysis, and
nucleic acid purification, illustratively by binding to and eluting
from a silica substrate, illustratively no more than 5 washes, or
no more than 3 washes, but as few as one wash is within the scope
of this invention. These nucleic acids may be extracted and
prepared without centrifugation or enzymatic digestion, and without
many repeated washing steps. Also as demonstrated, these extracted
nucleic acids are suitable as template for subsequent
amplification.
[0108] The present invention may be embodied in other specific
forms without departing from its spirit or essential
characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in
all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of
the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims
rather than by the foregoing description. While certain embodiments
and details have been included herein and in the attached invention
disclosure for purposes of illustrating the invention, it will be
apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes in the
methods and apparatus disclosed herein may be made without
departing from the scope of the invention, which is defined in the
appended claims. All changes which come within the meaning and
range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their
scope.
* * * * *